Standard navigation apps often treat sailing boats as if they were motorboats. They stubbornly calculate the direct route from A to B, completely unconcerned as to whether headwinds, dead calms or currents might ruin the trip. For years, weather routing programmes were considered unaffordable for recreational sailors and often deemed too complex. Hauke Schmidt is an editor in the “Test & Technology” section and a passionate cruising sailor. In this podcast episode, Hauke explains why the playing field is shifting right now and how modern algorithms make all the difference on long-haul voyages and even on short after-work trips.
The real-life test: When the ‘wrong’ route turns out to be the best shot of the holiday
When is it worth learning how to use specialised routing systems? Drawing on a striking anecdote from his own summer holiday, the YACHT editor describes how a suggested route – which at first glance seemed completely illogical – saved his crew from a lull, whilst their competitors, sailing the direct course without any routing, were left high and dry. He also explains why free weather models usually fail on coastal routes and why, without high-resolution data, you’re often left in the dark.
A comparison of two apps: Navimetrix & Orca
To show which digital tool is best suited to which type of sailor, Hauke Schmidt compares two different weather routing apps.
With Navimetrix He describes it as a cross-platform tool for specialist tacticians: it offers in-depth professional features, parallel route simulations and even AI weather briefings, all at a price that makes it ideal for leisure use.
On the other hand, there is Orca as an all-in-one solution. This fully-fledged navigation system impresses with its modern map view and is extremely easy to use on a day-to-day basis, but offers less scope for detailed analysis.
A look behind the scenes: How much technology does a cruising sailor really need?
Where are there still interface issues between apps and chartplotters on board? What criteria does the YACHT editorial team use to test new software, and how can you filter out the really important data before setting sail? Have a listen now and find out how to plan your next sailing trip with greater peace of mind!
You can listen to YACHT’s sailing podcast with Hauke Schmidt here
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Antonia von Lamezan
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